Congratulations Amanda on being our Personal Trainer Of The Month! Amanda was awarded the Bodybuilding.com Personal Trainer of the Month for her health and fitness contributions that she provides for her clients!

[ Q ] Could you tell us a little about your background - personally and professionally?

I am a registered Dietitian, NSCA- CPT. I teach a weight loss class at the YMCA. I'm an ultra-runner. I have done 4 100 milers and many 50Ks and 50 mile marathons. I took a break from running and went into natural figure competition. Then I got my WNBF pro card Oct 2009! My first pro show is in May.

Click To Enlarge.I Took A Break From Running And Went Into Natural Figure Competition.

[ Q ] When and why did you become a trainer?

I have been a registered dietitian for 12 years. I have always wanted to be a personal trainer but worked full time in the hospital. I got certified with NSCA 2 years ago.

[ Q ] What is your training style? What methods do you use?

Depending on how advanced they are and what their goals are. I progress slowly.

[ Q ] Do you have examples of success stories from clients using your methods?

Yes but my methods are realistic and manageable. I don't push supplements.

Click To Enlarge.My Methods Are Realistic And Manageable.

[ Q ] Who are some of your most notable clients?

Stephanie Webb. She has lost 70 lbs.

[ Q ] Can you please you give me an example diet and training program you put together for your clients depending on their goals?

Everyone is different. There is no standard plan. I emphasize portion control!

[ Q ] What are the most common mistakes a client makes?

Expecting miracles after years of inactivity and thinking transformation is in just an hour.

Click To Enlarge.Don't Expect Miracles After Years Of Inactivity.

[ Q ] What are the most common mistakes you believe a trainer makes?

When they don't listen to clients enough.

[ Q ] Do you set your clients up with a full diet and training plan for them to follow by themselves?

Yes - I have that privilege. Unfortunately people who are not registered dietitians do it anyway.

[ Q ] How do you keep your clients motivated?

I explain that it has to be intrinsic motivation not extrinsic.

[ Q ] Do you train a male client differently than a female?

Yes. Females want to improve certain areas, men also.

Click To Enlarge.Females Want To Improve Certain Areas And Men Want To Improve Others.

[ Q ] How have you changed your approach to clients over the years of experience?

I feel I have more patience and empathy being a nutritionist as well and counseling overweight clients.

[ Q ] How do you start a client on a new program? Do you do some kind of assessment?

Yes, we do medical history, weight history, and body fat measurements. Then based on if they have ever done weights or not we'd start with a lighter weight

[ Q ] Do you prefer to train male or female clients and why?

It doesn't matter... I think it's more of an issue with the guy than me.

[ Q ] Do you feel just as much like a psychologist as you do a personal trainer?

Yes... haha. It is 80% mental in my opinion.

Click To Enlarge.Training Is 80 Percent Mental In My Opinion.

Do You Know Another Great Trainer?Sign Them Up For The Personal Trainer Of The Month!

Do you have a personal trainer that deserves to be a Bodybuilding.com Personal Trainer of the Month? Submit them to ptmonth@bodybuilding.com.